What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chief Wastewater Plant Operator/Assistant Director of Public Works position at Town of Newport, NH?
Overview
The Town is seeking an experienced, hands-on public works professional to serve as Assistant Director of Public Works with primary responsibility for managing the day-to-day operations of the Town’s Wastewater Treatment Facility and providing oversight of Water/Sewer activities. This exempt, supervisory position plays a key role in the operation of a newly constructed Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) treatment facility and maintains oversight of all current and historical wastewater infrastructure, including lift stations and the industrial pretreatment program.
The Assistant Director supervises and supports treatment plant staff, assists with scheduling and performance management, participates in operations and maintenance activities as needed, and ensures facilities, grounds, and equipment are maintained to support efficient, safe, and compliant operations. The position is responsible for maintaining operational records and preparing required regulatory reporting, including monthly submissions to NHDES and USEPA. The Assistant Director also supports budgeting, procurement, program planning, and coordination with engineers and contractors on maintenance and capital improvement projects. This role provides after-hours on-call response for emergencies and may support broader Public Works functions in the absence of the Director.
Works under the direction of the Director of Public Works and in coordination with the Town Manager. Salary range: up to $95,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. NH Wastewater Operator Grade IV required, or ability to obtain within one (1) year of hire. Performs other duties as assigned.
Duties
Assist in planning, directing, and coordinating the operation and maintenance of the Wastewater Treatment Division.
- Work with wastewater treatment staff as needed, including participation in maintenance, repairs, operational assignments, and laboratory analysis.
- Review plant operations and maintain accurate operational records/logs.
- Prepare and submit required regulatory reports to state and federal agencies, including monthly reporting to NHDES and USEPA.
- Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of treatment facilities, grounds, and equipment; ensure adequate supplies and services to support efficient operations.
- Provide oversight of lift stations and other wastewater collection/treatment infrastructure.
- Provide oversight of the industrial pretreatment program and related compliance activities.
Skills
- Strong mechanical knowledge with experience in equipment repair, plumbing, and maintenance of water treatment systems.
- Proficiency with programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and distributed control systems (DCS) for process automation.
- Knowledge of wastewater treatment processes including biological treatment methods and chemical dosing.
- Skilled in data collection, analysis, and interpretation to optimize plant performance.
- Basic math skills for calculations related to flow rates, chemical dosages, and process adjustments.
- Excellent analysis skills for troubleshooting operational issues quickly and effectively.
- Physical ability to perform heavy lifting and perform tasks requiring stamina; comfortable working in confined spaces or challenging environments. This role is ideal for motivated professionals eager to lead innovative wastewater treatment operations while supporting community health initiatives. We are committed to fostering a collaborative environment where your expertise makes a real difference!
- Train, supervise, and support department personnel; assist with performance management and addressing operational or personnel issues.
- Assist with scheduling work assignments and coordinating staffing coverage, including after-hours operational needs.
- Coordinate with engineers, contractors, and vendors on maintenance activities, projects, and improvements.
Pay: $75,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $75,000 - $95,000